Dean Smith insists Walsall remain united

Last Sunday's 2-0 loss to Bristol City in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy final was followed by Michael Cain's outburst on social media.

There were also false rumours defender James O'Connor - who like Cain did not feature in the team - had 'stormed out' following the game.

But, ahead of the Saddlers return to League One action, Smith moved to ease fears the strong team ethos he has sought to build at the Banks's Stadium has been damaged in any way.

Smith was impressed by the way Leicester loan star Cain later apologised to team-mates.

He posted the message: "absolutely no loyalty in football any more, absolutely fuming" on Instagram and Twitter shortly after the final whistle.

Smith said: "Everything was blown up away from here. Only if he believed he had done something wrong should be apologise and he did that.

"He is a young lad and wanted to play. He has shown a bit of immaturity and has shown it in public on social media."

While Smith expects 20-year-old Cain to learn from the experience, both he and O'Connor insist there is simply no truth in rumours the latter stormed out of Wembley.

The Saddlers boss conceded the defender was "angry and disappointed" after learning the previous night he would not start but praised his professionalism during the occasion itself.

Smith said: "He was angry and disappointed when I told him on Saturday evening (that he wouldn't be in the team).

"But he is a consummate professional and before the game, during the game and after the game he was brilliant.

"The fact is we only had 11 players come back on the coach with us because I allowed a lot of them to go with their families."

Romaine Sawyers is unavailable for tomorrow's game, as he remains on international duty with St Kitts and Nevis.